Machine perfusion techniques for liver transplantation- A meta-analysis of the first seven randomized-controlled trials

Background & aims: Machine perfusion is increasingly being tested in clinical transplantation. Despite this, the number of large prospective clinical trials remains limited. The aim of this study was to compare the impact of machine perfusion vs. static cold storage (SCS) on outcomes after liver transplantation.Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) was conducted to identify randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) comparing post-transplant outcomes following machine perfusion vs. SCS. Data were pooled using random effect models. Risk ratios (RRs) were calculated for relevant outcomes. The quality of evidence was rated using the GRADE-framework.Results: Seven RCTs were identified (four on hypothermic oxygenated [HOPE] and three on normothermic machine perfusion [NMP]), including a total number of 1,017 patients. Both techniques were associated with significantly lower rates of early allograft dysfunction (NMP: n = 41/282, SCS: n = 74/253, RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.30-0.86, p = 0.01, I-2 = 39%; HOPE: n = 45/241, SCS: n = 97/241, RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.35-0.65, p < 0.00001, I-2 = 5%). The HOPE approach led to a significant reduction in major complications (Clavien Grade >= IIIb; HOPE: n = 90/241; SCS: n = 117/241, RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.63-0.93, p = 0.006, I-2 = 0%), re-transplantation (HOPE: n = 1/163; SCS: n = 11/163; RR 0.21, 95% CI 0.04-0.96, p = 0.04; I-2 = 0%) and graft loss (HOPE: n = 7/163; SCS: n = 19/163; RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.17-0.95, p = 0.04; I-2 = 0%). Both perfusion techniques were found to 'likely' reduce overall biliary complications and non-anastomotic strictures.Conclusions: Although this study provides the highest current evidence on the role of machine perfusion, outcomes remain limited to a 1-year follow-up after liver transplantation. Comparative RCTs and large real-world cohort studies with longer follow-up are required to enhance the robustness of the data further, thereby supporting the introduction of perfusion technologies into routine clinical practice.

Automated summary

Machine perfusion in liver transplantation can reduce the incidence of early allograft dysfunction and major complications. However, more comparative clinical trials and long-term follow-up studies are needed to support its application in clinical practice.